Few roles are as important and influential as that of a global leader. But, being a global leader takes some work. Standing out as a global leader is more than just working long hours and showing determination.
It requires you to be open-minded to new ways of thinking, culturally intelligent, and ready to step outside the box. Also, your communication skills must be over the top, including reaching out and connecting with people worldwide.
A genuine and deep understanding and appreciation for diverse cultures is also something you must have. Problem solver, passionate about improving the world and making it a better place, that is a true global leader. Even if it seems like too much for one person – that’s what separates a true leader from the crowd.
Also Read: The new way of Conquering the Business World
What are the traits of inclusive leadership?
Creating a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace is easier with a tool like inclusive leadership. The traits of effective inclusive leaders include:
• Being open-minded
• Accepting different viewpoints
• Valuing the differences between individuals
• Cultivating an environment of collaboration where everyone feels comfortable expressing their opinions
Don’t just say it – do it! The best inclusive leaders must actively demonstrate a commitment to equity and equality in the workplace.
Leadership skills and competencies
A top-notch global leader knows their team, understands the workflow, and respects the culture. They’re not just bosses but motivators who spark enthusiasm and guide their team to success.
They’ve got emotional intelligence, listening actively, and empathizing with others. They’re communicators and negotiators par excellence.
Cultural awareness and understanding
Global leaders must understand different cultures’ subtle differences to lead an effective international team or business. Each culture holds different values. These values can affect any team’s performance and customer or stakeholder relationships. Great leaders are also aware of cultural sensitivities. This awareness could be crucial to avoid miscommunication or misunderstanding between cultures when engaging in business activities or negotiations.
Visionary thinking
One of the skills that can make a great leader is being a visionary. A clear vision for the future, which considers current trends and potential shifts in the market environment, distinguishes a leader from
others. This glance into the future helps true global leaders make informed decisions about where their organization is headed.
This requires an immense amount of knowledge about international markets and customer needs across borders so that they can identify opportunities for growth or improvement before their competitors do.
Six traits of inclusive leadership from Deloitte include:
1. Commitment
Commitment is the cornerstone of an exemplary global leader. Leaders willing to take risks and follow through on their promises are more successful than those without commitment.
2. Courage
Courage is necessary in today’s business environment, especially for global leaders. They are expected to face difficult decisions, and champion causes that may be unpopular or challenging.
3. Cognizance of bias
Awareness of bias is necessary for a leader to make sound judgments in all situations. To successfully build unbiased responses, leaders must understand their own biases and those of their stakeholders and use this knowledge when creating equitable solutions.
4. Curiosity
Curiosity is an amazing trait of global leadership. They should strive to view problems from multiple perspectives and use this information to find creative solutions.
5. Culturally intelligent
Culturally intelligent leadership requires an appreciation for diversity and a commitment to respecting all stakeholders. Leaders must wear their open-mindedness and empathy and be ready to learn from diverse cultures to do justice to those they lead.
6. Collaborative
Teamwork is dream work for true global leaders. Teams nowadays consist of people from different cultures, faiths, and backgrounds working towards a common goal, and they need a great leader to reach that goal,
So, what’s in the toolbox of a successful global leader? A solid commitment, a dash of courage, an understanding of biases, an insatiable curiosity, a knack for cultural intelligence, and a strong spirit of collaboration. Only with that toolset leaders can make a real difference and inspire others to follow.
The importance of cultural intelligence in a global leader
As a global leader, you’re in a role where your team is not just in the office next door but spread across different continents, countries, and cultures. Sounds exciting.But also quite challenging. This is where cultural intelligence comes into play.
Cultural intelligence is understanding and accepting that people from different cultures have unique ways of thinking, communicating, and working. It includes being empathetic, respectful, and adaptable to these differences.
Cultural intelligence is not just a ‘nice-to-have,’ it’s a ‘must-have’ for any global leader today.
What other traits should a global leader have?
1. Cultural sensitivity:
Respect for cultural differences, a deep understanding of different cultures’ operations, and a willingness to work with people worldwide.
2. Openness to learning:
A desire to learn about other countries and cultures while being open to feedback and criticism.
3. Empowerment:
It is like being the wind beneath someone’s wings. It is not just believing in people but creating an environment where everyone feels valued, and collaboration is the norm.
4. Communication proficiency:
The ability to communicate effectively in multiple languages and across different cultures.
5. Strategic vision:
Having a long-term strategy for success that includes understanding global economic trends and anticipating opportunities.
6. Confidence:
The courage to make difficult decisions and take risks to achieve success while remaining resilient when faced with setbacks.
These key skills are stepping stones for anyone aspiring to become a global leader. They also serve as a reminder that successful leadership involves more than just technical skills or business savviness.
